Justifiably, London is England's most visited city. But there's so much more to my country than the capital! There are lots of great day trips, especially to some of the smaller cities. Whether you're living in London, or a visitor from overseas, I can't urge you enough to get out and see what else England has to offer.
Here are four of my favourite cities within easy reach of London, to give you some great day trip ideas...
Winchester
Time from London: 1 Hour by Train
Winchester is easily one of my favourite places in the UK. Just an hour from London you'll find the peace and quiet of a green and leafy city, that feels like a small town. Home to one of Britain's oldest high streets, Winchester is full of beautiful old buildings so this is one of the best British day trips for history lovers. Don't miss the round table in Winchester Castle, supposedly the one King Arthur and his knights once sat around.
Bath
Time from London: 1.5 Hours by Train
The UNESCO-protected Georgian skyline of Bath is one of the most beautiful sites in the South of England. With almost everything built from honey-coloured Bath stone, this is one picturesque little city. The famous Roman Baths are fascinating, while the nearby Thermae Bath Spa is a fantastic modern day equivalent. Follow in Jane Austen's footsteps as you explore the Georgian buildings around the city centre, and don't forget to stop for afternoon tea at one of the many teashops.
York
Time from London: 2 Hours by Train
Having recently visited York for the first time, I can say it's easily one of the best day trips from London. Home of the UK's first ghost tour and some seriously spooky stories, there's a lot of history in the town centre. Walk the centuries-old city walls, climb the tower at York Minster, and learn all about York's key role in the history of British chocolate at the York Chocolate Story.
Brighton
Time from London: 1 Hour by Train
In just one hour you can be at the coast! Brighton is one of the most famous seaside towns in England, and in summer it's one of the most popular day trips from London. Explore the lanes for some quirky shops and galleries, hit the beach, and swing by a bar for some amazing live music before catching the last train back to London.